Rafael Benitez, who has been hired as Chelsea’s new interim manager, says he was not given the job merely to work on Fernando Torres’ slump in form, even as he claims his fellow Spaniard has a right attitude.
The pair worked together at Liverpool, where the striker was widely regarded as one of the best in the world. Benitez is confirmed they can replicate their relationship at Stamford Bridge.
“I knew everyone would talk about Fernando,” said Benitez at a packed press conference. “Everyone is talking about him not doing well at Chelsea, but when I was watching games, I always felt his attitude was very good. At training today, his attitude was good and together, we can win big things for this club.
“This is not just about Fernando’s good attitude. Fernando is a top class player and he will improve like the rest. I will say I saw a lot of players with a great attitude at the training ground. Oscar, Ramires, (Cesar) Azpilicueta, I see a great attitude.
“Can we help them to improve? We will do our best. I know how good all the players can be. Fernando is one of the important players of this team. I will try to improve him like I improve all the others.”
Benitez also revealed he has not spoken with Russian owner Roman Abramovich yet and all his contact has been with the club’s football adviser, Michael Rmenalo.
“I speak with Michael Emenalo, he is my link,” Benitez said. “I like to talk about football with him. I can talk to him about players, systems, tactics. My agent was doing his job, I was focusing on other things. The information I have is, the owner likes to see his team playing good football. He is not involved every day, telling the manager he has to do this or that.
“It will be easier here. At Liverpool I had owners who were arguing and that was difficult. I wanted to sign a striker, one says this the other no. This will be easy.”
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